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Gibson Memorabilia Sold at Auction

A collection of personal items belonging to Baseball Hall of Famer Bob Gibson sold for $456,900 in the live auction conducted in Cleveland during the National Sports Collectors Convention.

He wasn’t making $120,000 a year when he won the 1968 National League MVP award, but that was what one collector paid Friday night for the trophy given to Bob Gibson after that incredible season.

The award brought the highest price in Legendary Auctions’ live sale at the House of Blues in downtown Cleveland. The auction, not affiliated with the National Sports Collectors Convention, drew a crowd of well-financed bidders who participated in person, by phone and on the internet.

The 12 items consigned by the Hall of Fame pitcher brought a total of $456,900 according to final bids posted on the company’s website.

Gibson’s Cy Young award from that same season sold for $84,000 while his 1967 World Series ring brought $54,000.

Dick Zitzman, Gibson’s representative said that his client was pleased with the results of the auction. “The sale allows Bob to participate at a higher level to a charity he cares deeply about,” said Zitzman. Part of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Baseball Assistance Team (B.A.T.), an organization that helps baseball families who have fallen upon hard times.

Other items sold by Legendary included a game-worn uniform consigned by the family of 19th century standout pitcher Bill Hoffer. Complete with jersey, leggings and cleats, the group sold for $105,000. Other Hoffer items, including a warm-up sweater, game-used baseball and contract were also offered. Legendary says it will offer additional Hoffer jerseys in future auctions. If you’ve not seen a 19th century uniform, here’s a look:

A professionally restored T206 Honus Wagner card was also included in the auction. It was purchased for $222,000 by Arkansas collector John Rogers.

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About Rich Mueller

Rich is the editor and founder of Sports Collectors Daily. A broadcaster and writer for more than 30 years and a collector for even longer than that, he's usually typing something somewhere. Type him back at [email protected]